Randy Chandler
Garbanzo, also known as chickpea, has been cultivated in the Mediterranean, Middle East, India, and parts of Africa for over 7,000 years. Garbanzo beans are used in various dishes, including the popular hummus and falafel. Garbanzo flour, or chickpea flour, is also a versatile ingredient used to make socca, a type of unleavened pancake, and can be turned into a cheese-like product. This garbanzo cheese is a vegan alternative to dairy cheese, with a similar texture and flavour when prepared correctly. It can be used as a topping for dishes like nachos, baked potatoes, and pizza, adding a creamy, cheesy element.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Garbanzo bean flour used in | Snack foods in northern India, farinata (Italy), panisse (Provence), falafel and hummus (Middle East), halo-halo (Philippines), soups, salads, and vegetarian dishes (US) |
| Garbanzo cheese used in | Vegan grilled cheese sandwiches, burritos, breakfast |
| Chickpea cheese sauce used in | Mac and cheese, baked potatoes, nachos, pizza, broccoli, potatoes |
| Skillet cheesy chickpeas used in | Main dish served over roasted chicken, side dish with bread |
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What You'll Learn
Garbanzo cheese in sandwiches
Garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, are a versatile ingredient used in various dishes worldwide. While they are commonly associated with Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian cuisines, they have gained popularity in sandwiches as a nutritious and tasty alternative to traditional fillings. Here are some ways to incorporate garbanzo cheese into sandwiches:
Chickpea Salad Sandwich
This sandwich is a popular choice, especially among those seeking a healthy and economical option. It is often made with mashed garbanzo beans, mayonnaise, mustard, and various vegetables such as celery, onion, and carrots. The salad is then seasoned with salt and pepper and spices like smoked paprika or cumin. It is served on toasted sourdough bread, adding a crunchy texture and a tangy flavour to the sandwich. The simplicity of this sandwich makes it a perfect base for experimentation with various ingredients and flavours.
Skillet Cheesy Chickpeas Sandwich
This sandwich takes a heartier approach by combining garbanzo beans with shredded cheese. The beans are first sautéed with onions and garlic, then simmered in a marinara sauce. The mixture is then topped with shredded cheese and broiled until bubbly and golden. The sandwich is served on a French baguette, providing a hearty and indulgent option. The addition of cheese brings a creamy texture and a savoury flavour to the sandwich.
Curried Chickpea Sandwich
For those seeking a fusion of flavours, a curried chickpea sandwich offers an intriguing blend of spices. This sandwich features garbanzo beans mashed with curry powder, raisins, and grated carrots. The mixture is then combined with vegan yogurt or coconut yogurt, adding a creamy and tangy twist. It can be served on bread, in a pita, or as an open-faced flatbread sandwich. The curry flavours provide a unique and exotic profile to the garbanzo bean sandwich experience.
Mediterranean Chickpea Sandwich
This sandwich takes inspiration from the Mediterranean region, incorporating flavours like Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh parsley. The garbanzo beans are typically mashed or smashed and combined with a tangy dressing such as lemon juice or vinegar. It is served on toasted multigrain bread, providing a nutritious and flavourful option. The Mediterranean twist adds a bright and savoury profile to the garbanzo bean sandwich.
Garbanzo beans provide a versatile base for creating sandwiches with distinct flavours and textures. They are a nutritious and economical alternative to traditional sandwich fillings, offering protein, fibre, and various vitamins and minerals. By incorporating garbanzo cheese into sandwiches, individuals can explore new flavour profiles while enjoying the health benefits of this versatile legume.
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Garbanzo cheese on potatoes
Garbanzo, or chickpeas, have been cultivated and consumed in the Mediterranean, Middle East, India, and parts of Africa for over 7,000 years. Garbanzo cheese, or chickpea cheese sauce, is a vegan, gluten-free, oil-free, and dairy-free alternative to traditional cheese. It is made with wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes, nutritional yeast, onions, and carrots, and has a rich, creamy texture and a cheesy flavour.
One popular dish that uses garbanzo cheese is the Spanish Garbanzos with Fried Potatoes, also known as Garbanzas Canarias. This dish combines garbanzo beans with fried baby new potatoes and is flavoured with sweet smoked Spanish paprika, ground cumin, and saffron. The garbanzo beans are simmered in a vegetable broth with onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and tomato sauce, while the potatoes are fried in olive oil until golden. The dish is then served with the fried potatoes arranged around the outside or added on top of the garbanzos, and sprinkled with finely chopped parsley.
Another way to use garbanzo cheese on potatoes is to make a vegan cheese sauce to pour over baked potatoes. This sauce can also be used in other dishes such as mac and cheese, nachos, and pizza. The sauce is made by blending plant-based ingredients such as chickpeas, nutritional yeast, and "aquafaba" (chickpea liquid) to create a creamy, cheesy texture and flavour.
Additionally, garbanzo beans can be used in a variety of potato-based dishes, such as skillet cheesy chickpeas, which combines chickpeas, onion, garlic, marinara sauce, and shredded cheese, served with chunky bread. Another option is to make three-cheese garlic scalloped potatoes, which layers potatoes, garlic, cream, and a combination of cheddar, Parmesan or Romano, and provolone cheese, baked until tender and melted.
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Garbanzo cheese on nachos
Garbanzo cheese, also known as chickpea cheese, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including nachos. Here are some tips and ideas for using garbanzo cheese on nachos:
Preparing the Garbanzo Cheese
To make garbanzo cheese, you'll need to start with cooked garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas. You can use canned beans or cook them from dry. If using canned beans, be sure to rinse them well to remove any excess sodium. To prepare the garbanzo cheese, simply blend or pulse the cooked beans in a food processor until they reach a fine and mealy consistency. You can then fold this into a mild cheese sauce and heat it until it's hot and bubbly. Alternatively, you can explore making a chickpea cheese sauce, which involves blending chickpeas with other ingredients such as miso paste, tahini, or vegan-friendly substitutes.
Assembling the Nachos
For nachos, start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Cut whole wheat tortillas into sixths to create tortilla wedges or chips. Spray one side of the tortilla wedges with non-stick cooking spray. Place the wedges on a parchment-lined sheet pan in a single layer. Bake in the oven for 15 to 19 minutes, or until they are crisp and lightly browned.
Adding the Toppings
Once your tortilla chips are ready, it's time to assemble the nachos. Spoon the garbanzo cheese sauce over the crispy tortilla chips. You can also add other toppings such as black beans, diced tomatoes, and green onions for a burst of colour and flavour. If you're looking for a heartier option, you can add shredded chicken or chunks of roasted chicken to your nachos. Don't forget to finish it off with some fresh basil leaves!
Serving Suggestions
These nachos can be served as a tasty snack or appetiser. For a more substantial meal, serve them with a side of chunky bread or a fresh French baguette to dip into the cheesy goodness. You can also offer a variety of dips or salsas on the side for added flavour and texture. Enjoy the combination of garbanzo cheese and nachos!
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Garbanzo cheese in stews
Garbanzo, or chickpea, cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including stews. Here are some ideas for incorporating garbanzo cheese into your stew creations:
Spanish Cocido
Cocido is the national dish of Spain and is a hearty stew that typically includes chickpeas and pork. The dish is believed to have originated from adafina, a 15th-century meal prepared by Sephardic Jews of Iberia. The original adafina consisted of garbanzos, lamb, hard-boiled eggs, string beans, and other kosher ingredients cooked overnight in covered clay pots. Over time, Christians began adding pork to the recipe, with the amount of pork indicating a family's wealth. To make a garbanzo cheese cocido, simply follow the traditional recipe and add shredded garbanzo cheese on top.
Indian-Inspired Stew
In northern India, garbanzo bean flour is commonly used in snack foods, but you can also incorporate it into a flavourful stew. Try making a stew with garbanzo beans, vegetables, and Indian spices such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander. For a creamy texture and cheesy flavour, stir in some garbanzo cheese sauce. Serve the stew with naan bread for dipping and enjoy the rich, spicy flavours.
Mediterranean Stew
Garbanzo beans have been a staple in the Mediterranean region for thousands of years. Create a Mediterranean-inspired stew by combining garbanzo beans with vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. Add some shredded garbanzo cheese on top and serve it with a side of crusty bread. You can also include meat such as chicken or lamb to make it a heartier meal.
Vegan Stew
Garbanzo cheese is a perfect ingredient for creating vegan stews. Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add vegetables of your choice, such as carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms. Include some garbanzo beans for protein and thickness. Instead of using regular cheese, which contains dairy, add shredded garbanzo cheese to make your stew creamy and cheesy. Season with herbs and spices, and serve with a fresh garden salad.
Tex-Mex Chili
For a fusion of flavours, try a Tex-Mex-inspired chili stew with a cheesy twist. Sauté onions and garlic, then add ground beef or a plant-based alternative. Toss in some kidney beans, corn, and diced tomatoes, along with your favourite chili spices. Instead of using shredded cheese on top, stir in some garbanzo cheese sauce to make it creamy and satisfying. Serve with tortilla chips or cornbread for a delicious and unique take on chili.
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Garbanzo cheese in salads
Garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, have been a part of the human diet for thousands of years. They are a staple in the Mediterranean, Middle East, India, and some parts of Africa. In the United States, garbanzo beans are commonly used in soups, vegetarian dishes, and salads.
One popular way to incorporate garbanzo beans into a salad is to create a Mediterranean-style dish. This type of salad typically combines garbanzo beans with fresh vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and avocados. It also includes herbs like parsley, dill, and mint, and a zesty lemon dressing. The result is a healthy, satisfying, and flavorful meal perfect for picnics or lunches.
Another option is to make a Greek garbanzo bean salad. This variety typically includes ingredients such as cucumbers, olives, tomatoes, red onion, garlic, lemon juice, and feta cheese. The addition of feta cheese provides a creamy and salty contrast to the other ingredients.
For those who enjoy a more substantial salad, garbanzo beans can be combined with shredded cheese and served over roasted chicken. This creates a heartier meal while still incorporating the nutritional benefits of garbanzo beans.
Additionally, garbanzo beans can be used as a base for a salad, such as in the Italian Garbanzo Bean Salad. This salad features garbanzo beans, black beans, corn, cucumbers, bell peppers, and an Italian-inspired vinaigrette. The combination of beans provides a good source of plant-based protein, making it a nutritious and filling option.
In conclusion, garbanzo beans are a versatile ingredient that can enhance the flavour and nutritional profile of salads. They can be combined with various vegetables, herbs, dressings, and cheeses to create delicious and healthy meals. Whether used as a side dish or a main course, garbanzo bean salads offer a range of exciting possibilities for home cooks.
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Frequently asked questions
Garbanzo, or chickpea, cheese is used in a variety of dishes, including:
- Vegan grilled cheese sandwiches
- Burritos
- Vegan poutine
- Loaded sweet potato fries
- Pizza
Garbanzo cheese can be made into a sauce that can be used on:
- Baked potatoes
- Nachos
- Mac and cheese
- Pizza
- Pasta
Garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, are used in a variety of savoury dishes, including:
- Hummus
- Falafel
- Soups
- Salads
- Vegetarian dishes
- Stews
Garbanzo beans are used in the Philippine sweet confection halo-halo, which is made with milk and shaved ice.
